Earth 5 Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is the cryosphere?
The cryosphere consists of Earth’s frozen water, including glaciers, ice sheets, permafrost, sea ice, and snow.
What are ice sheets, and where are the two major ice sheets on Earth located?
Ice sheets are massive expanses of glacial land ice covering more than 50,000 km². The two major ice sheets are located in Greenland and Antarctica.
How does the melting of ice sheets contribute to sea level rise?
Melting ice sheets release large amounts of freshwater into the ocean, raising global sea levels.
The Greenland Ice Sheet could raise sea levels by 6 meters if fully melted, while the Antarctic Ice Sheet could raise them by 60 meters.
What is the difference between sea ice and ice sheets?
Sea ice is frozen ocean water that forms, grows, and melts in the ocean, while ice sheets are large masses of glacial ice located on land.
Why is the cryosphere important for regulating Earth’s climate?
The cryosphere reflects sunlight due to its high albedo, helping to cool the planet. It also plays a crucial role in regulating ocean currents and supporting biodiversity.
What is the significance of the albedo effect in the cryosphere?
Ice and snow in the cryosphere reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption. As ice melts, darker surfaces like water are exposed, which absorb more sunlight, further warming the Earth.
How does the melting of sea ice differ from the melting of ice sheets in terms of sea level rise?
Melting sea ice does not contribute significantly to sea level rise because it is already floating in the ocean. Melting ice sheets, however, add water to the oceans, causing sea levels to rise.
What role do glaciers play in the cryosphere?
Glaciers store freshwater, regulate local ecosystems, and act as indicators of climate change due to their sensitivity to temperature changes.
What are some potential global impacts of melting ice in the cryosphere?
Potential impacts include rising sea levels, disrupted ocean currents, increased flooding in coastal areas, loss of habitats, and more extreme weather patterns.
How has Arctic sea ice changed in recent decades?
Arctic sea ice has significantly decreased in both extent and thickness due to rising global temperatures, contributing to feedback loops that accelerate warming.
What are the implications of permafrost melting?
Melting permafrost releases trapped greenhouse gases like methane and carbon dioxide, amplifying global warming. It also destabilizes land, impacting infrastructure and ecosystems.
How do seasonal variations affect sea ice in the Arctic and Antarctic?
Sea ice expands during winter and melts during summer. Seasonal changes impact the extent of ice cover and the albedo effect.
